Best Fragrance Gift Ideas

Birthdays, bat mitzvahs, graduations, and holidays always seem to sneak up on us without warning, catching us empty-handed gift-wise. Before you hit the panic button and start furiously wrapping last year's fruitcake, consider this: Our Holiday Edition Beauty Pulse Survey revealed that while 63 percent of respondents chose fragrance as the beauty gift they'd most like to receive, only 51 percent said they were planning on giving fragrance—we're guessing because they weren't sure which scent to choose. We’ve compiled a cheat sheet to help you sleuth out the scent that will make someone very happy (and aromatic).

Clue: She loves roses—any color will do.

Elegant and sumptuous, this scent will tap into any rose lover’s romantic side. Top notes of—what else—rose unfold to a body of tuberose, while touches of black currant, patchouli, and moss give this modern perfume an earthy finish.

Clue: Her pantry is always stocked with interesting wines from around the world.

If your giftee is more likely to splurge on vino than handbags, this charming fragrance is for her. Inspired by France's Champagne region, fresh’s sparkling blend combines an innovative heart note of pinot noir accord with citrusy top notes. The result is a fresh scent (pun intended) that's perfect for everyday wear.

Hint: She's racked up more frequent flyer miles than the secretary of state.

Although lovely to look at, a glass bottle of perfume is not the greatest choice for anyone who spends a lot of time in airport security lines. These handy TSA-approved metal vials make toting around a favorite scent easy and spill-proof.

Hint: She’s obsessed with macarons, and Serge Gainsbourg makes a cameo on all her playlists.

Since a ticket to the city of lights is presumably out of your budget, bestow the Francophile on your list the next best thing—a scent that embodies effortless Parisian chic. Fragrant with lily blossoms, Cartier's newest perfume will have her fondly dreaming of strolls along the Seine all year long.